Children's Vocabulary Shrinking as Reading Loses Out to Screen Time, Warns Lexicographer
Children's vocabulary is diminishing as reading habits decline in favour of screen time, according to lexicographer Susie Dent, who is calling on families to engage in reading, conversation, and word games to enhance language development. The Countdown star's caution comes as the government prepares to issue first-time guidance to parents on managing screen use for under-fives, amid growing concerns that excessive digital exposure is harming children's linguistic growth.
Growing Vocabulary Gap and Screen Impact
"So many children are now falling behind," Dent stated. "The vocabulary gap is getting bigger, and there is a real perception that vocabulary development is suffering, which impacts learning." She referenced a 2023 Oxford University Press report revealing that two in five pupils have lagged in vocabulary development, attributing this trend to screen time displacing reading activities. "The digital lives of our children are taking a greater and greater role, and reading certainly is in decline," she explained, while acknowledging that technology can boost vocabulary if used appropriately.
Historical Fears and Modern Challenges
Dent, who has two daughters with varying screen habits, noted that English speakers have historically feared new technologies, from Victorian postcards to telegrams and the internet. "There are many ways in which the internet is actually helping," she said, "rather than reducing language to a bland monolith, it's encouraged variety. But there is a sweet spot between over-immersion and beneficial use." She emphasized the need for balance to prevent negative effects on language acquisition.
Campaign to Spark Curiosity in Words
In a new initiative with Soreen malt loaf, Dent is fronting a campaign to enrich children's vocabulary during snack times. Limited-edition lunchbox loaves will feature fun words like kerfuffle and hullabaloo, complete with definitions and origins, aiming to ignite curiosity. "This is really close to my heart," Dent shared, "because I spend my life trying to encourage people, especially children, to enjoy the dictionary for its drama and magic." She lamented a loss of this enchantment in modern times.
Parental Habits and the Widening Gap
Dent expressed concern over parental habits, such as constant phone use, which children mimic, leading to reduced conversation. "We've all seen parents in cafes just looking at their phones while their children sit idle," she observed, "and that's a great sadness because conversation is everything." She warned of a widening divide between children who read and those who do not, noting that readers accelerate vocabulary acquisition at a higher rate.
Addressing the Issue Without Hyperbole
When asked if this constitutes a crisis, Dent avoided hyperbole but stressed significant concern. "I think there is a huge concern around reading and vocabulary expansion," she said, "but there are ways to address it. It's not a foregone conclusion that things will worsen exponentially." She recommended integrating dialogue into daily life and utilizing online word games as effective solutions.
Advocacy for Foreign Language Learning
Dent also advocated for learning foreign languages in schools, believing it fosters a deeper appreciation and understanding of English. "If there's one thing I could change, it would be to really promote foreign language learning at school," she asserted, "because the advantage is immeasurable." She expressed a desire for it to be compulsory, despite potential initial resistance, noting that no one regrets acquiring such skills.
